The agri-food sector has huge potential to contribute to export-led economic recovery. Agri-food exports are worth almost €8 billion sustaining over 150,000 jobs and 128,000 farms. But the agri-food industry has seen farming income fall by 40% between 2007 and 2009, three times more than the EU average. Farm incomes have recovered somewhat in the past year but the average still rests at approximately €16,500, significantly lower than the average industrial wage. Fine Gael will provide agri-food businesses with the environment needed to position Ireland as a world leader in the food industry.

Other products and services from Bill Tormey

The Minister for Health, Dr. James Reilly, T.D., turned the sod on thenew Adult Acute Psychiatric In-patient facility to be built on theBeaumont Hospital campus on Monday, 21st November, 2011.
The new unitis being developed by the HSE in co-operation with Beaumont Hospitaland on completion will be managed by HSE North Dublin Mental HealthServices.

A LONG, long time ago, when you and I were young, I wrote a columnhere about the myths and mantras of Irish politics.
Just because it’s said with a self-importantair, and repeated ad nauseam, doesn’t mean it’s true.
Our tax burden is one of the lowest in the EU — and that’s the truth.

The tributes, stories reminiscences on the radio and television from blasts from the past like Gemma Hussey, Barry Desmond, Shane Kenny, Peter Prendergast, Dick Spring were riveting to me.
Enda Kenny spoke in a very dignified manner for those in Fine Gael and the replay of Garret’s 80th birthday interview with John Bowman on RTE was brilliant.
I am very sad at the death of Garret FitzGerald.

MANILA — Americans calling the customer service lines of their airlines, phone companies and banks are now more likely to speak to Mark in Manila than Bharat in Bangalore.Enlarge This ImageJes Aznar for The New York Times.
People Support workers in Makati City.

Firstly, I think that respecting the Presidency as a transendant office would be a good start.Secondly, the last election result was a reflection of the public betrayal and obvious lack of competence of Fianna Fail.
Michael D Higgins has been very dignified throughout the campaign.Many FG voters that I know voted for him and were happy to do so.
For Gay Mitchell, all I can say is I’m sorry for him.